Nocturnal hypoglycemia is when blood sugar levels are low at night time, causing insomnia. Eating a whole grain snack or small piece of cheese 30 minutes before going to bed can help to reduce occurrences of this scenario.
There are, unfortunately, hundreds of people that struggle with low-blood sugar symptoms and are unaware as to why. By simply switching for a diet that is high in refined carbohydrates to one that is comprised of protein and complex carbohydrates, one can bridge the gap between a dysfunctional life and a rich one. In order to determine whether you have hypoglycemia, you must first examine your eating habits.
Simple facts like what and when you eat can directly affect how you feel. Anyone who has unexplained fatigue, depression, crying spells, anxiety, or apprehension should investigate low blood sugar levels as a potential culprit. You should also look into your family history, as hypoglycemia tends to run within families.
Nocturnal hypoglycemia (low nighttime blood glucose level) is an common cause of insomnia. When there is a drop in the blood glucose level, it causes the release of hormones that regulate glucose levels. These compounds stimulate the brain and are a natural signal that it is time to eat.
Eating a high-carbohydrate snack and avoiding high-protein foods in the hour or two before bed time helps some people to fall asleep more easily. This is partially due to the fact that eating carbohydrates can significantly increase levels of serotonin, which helps reduce anxiety and initiate sleep. Foods that promote drowsiness include bananas, figs, dates, yogurt, milk, tuna, grapefruit, and whole grain crackers. However, some of these foods, like milk, can create food intolerances and actually interfere with sleep.
If blood sugar is unstable, large spikes and drops in blood sugar can occur during sleep. When blood sugar levels drop during sleep, adrenaline and cortisol are released by adrenal glands, disturbing sleep patterns. Complex carbohydrates prevent nocturnal hypoglycemia and can help increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can also help with sleep.